Nigeria

Early 20th c

12 inches high x 6 inches wide

Ex: Belgium collection

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The Idoma used numerous masks that embodied the spirits of ancestors that were used during funeral ceremonies, to cure illness and for fertility. Idoma masks show influences from the Igbo and styles of other Cross River cultures. The mask displays a heart shaped face that is elaborately painted with scarification. The mask wears a colonial helmet and is mounted on coiled bamboo basketry that was attached to the dancer’s head.